Banana Lily (Nymphoides Aquatica)

Product Description

The Banana Lily (Nymphoides Aquatica) is a truly distinctive aquatic plant admired for its unique, banana-shaped tubers and vibrant green leaves. A favorite among aquascaping enthusiasts, this plant adds instant charm and curiosity to any freshwater aquarium. Its tuberous base — resembling a small bunch of bananas — not only serves as a nutrient reserve but also creates a visually intriguing texture that stands out in any tank layout.

Native to the still or slow-moving waters of the southeastern United States, Banana Lilies are hardy, beginner-friendly, and adaptable to a wide range of aquarium conditions. As they mature, they develop long stems that may reach the water’s surface, producing delicate floating leaves or even small white flowers above the surface, adding a natural and elegant aesthetic to your aquascape.

Juvenile specimens typically have compact tubers less than one inch wide, making them ideal for foreground or midground placement in smaller tanks. With time and proper lighting, these tubers sprout lush, heart-shaped leaves that bring dynamic life and movement to your underwater landscape.

Whether you’re designing a natural biotope, community aquarium, or a planted aquascape, the Banana Lily is a perfect accent plant that combines beauty, resilience, and easy care.

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Key Features

Unique Tuberous Appearance

The plant’s thick, banana-shaped tubers give it a distinctive look that draws attention and adds visual depth to any aquascape.

Hardy and Adaptable

Thrives in a wide range of freshwater conditions, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists.

Versatile Placement

Works beautifully as a foreground or midground plant, offering texture and contrast to carpets or stem plants.

Natural Flowering Potential

In mature setups, Banana Lilies can produce surface leaves and tiny white flowers, creating a pond-like effect inside your aquarium.

Low Maintenance

Does not require CO₂ or intensive fertilization; occasional root feeding keeps it healthy and vibrant.

Excellent Light Responder

Grows best under moderate lighting and develops brighter leaves under balanced nutrient conditions.

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Specifications

Scientific Name: Nymphoides aquatica
Common Name: Banana Lily, Banana Plant
Size: Juvenile (tubers under 1 inch across)
Care Level: Easy
CO₂ Requirement: Not Required
Growth Rate: Medium
Placement: Foreground to Midground
Lighting Requirement: Low to Medium
Color: Light Green Leaves with Dark Green Tubers
Water Temperature: 70–82°F (21–28°C)
pH Range: 6.0–7.5

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Planting and Care

Planting Method

Place the tubers gently on top of the substrate with roots lightly buried, allowing the tubers to remain visible. Avoid pushing the tubers fully into the substrate as this may cause them to rot.

Lighting

Provide moderate light levels to encourage compact growth and healthy leaf development. Too little light can slow growth, while excessive light may cause algae on the leaves.

Fertilization

While not demanding, the Banana Lily appreciates occasional root tabs or liquid fertilizer to maintain vivid leaf color and steady growth.

Maintenance

Trim older or damaged leaves periodically. Allow floating leaves to grow naturally if you want a more natural, pond-like look at the water’s surface.

Propagation

New plants form from runners or small plantlets sprouting from mature tubers. Simply separate and replant once roots and leaves develop.

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Aquascaping Inspiration

The Banana Lily makes a playful yet elegant addition to aquariums of all sizes. Its quirky tubers and graceful leaves provide contrast against carpeting plants or rock-based scapes. Use it as a foreground accent in nano aquariums or as a focal plant in minimalist aquascapes. When paired with colorful fish or shrimp, its bright green tones enhance visual balance and natural appeal.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes the Banana Lily unique?

Its thick, banana-shaped tubers set it apart from all other aquarium plants, serving both as a nutrient store and a decorative feature.

Is the Banana Lily suitable for beginners?

Yes. It’s hardy, easy to care for, and adaptable to a variety of water conditions — ideal for aquarists of all experience levels.

How should I plant my Banana Lily?

Place the tubers on top of the substrate and allow roots to grow naturally into the gravel or sand. Avoid burying the tubers.

Does the Banana Lily need CO₂?

No. It grows well without CO₂ injection. Optional CO₂ may increase growth speed and produce larger leaves.

Can Banana Lilies flower?

Yes. In stable and well-lit aquariums, mature plants can send leaves to the surface and produce small white flowers above the waterline.

How fast does the Banana Lily grow?

It has a moderate growth rate and will gradually produce new leaves and runners over time, making it easy to maintain.